The derelict drifted and the sick men died. The weather became uncertain, alternating mist and thin snow with gales and fierce winds, which caused the adventurers much alarm. The tossings and the crashes and bumpings of the ice caused the little barque to leak seriously, and to threaten dissolution. The end appeared near, and even the stolid "Bears" seemed upset; but release came to them all at last.
" The end appeared near."
"A ship! The barque! There, lying beside that sheltering berg. Shout—fire guns—yell loud!"
Reginald had spied the vessel lying snugly under the lee of the berg, and the three friends at once proceded to shout and fire shots as suggested. Five days had been passed by the party in the derelict, and the adventurers were satisfied with the experience.
After some delay, and while they were speculating
